Chef serves up fresh recipe for success with Ovenu Cirencester

A former sous chef who spent more than two decades working in some of the Cotswolds' best-known hotel kitchens is cooking up a new career with the launch of oven cleaning service Ovenu Cirencester.

Spencer Cross, who lives in the market town and has worked in hospitality since leaving college in 2002, is now taking his expertise from commercial kitchens into clients’ homes.

His career has included roles at The King's Head Inn in Bledington, The Swan Inn in Swinbrook and Hyde House, the wedding venue near Stow-on-the-Wold. Most recently, he returned to The Swan Inn, where he has spent the past two years working on a freelance basis.

After more than 20 years of working unsocial hours, including evenings and weekends, the father of three decided it was time for a career offering a better work-life balance while still allowing him to be his own boss.

The idea took shape after meeting a friend who already ran an Ovenu franchise. Seeing the business first-hand convinced him it was the ideal way to work for himself while benefiting from the ongoing support of an established national brand.

His longer-term ambition is to grow the business to the point where he is able to take on a second oven cleaning technician.

The 46-year-old said: "After many years working unsocial hours, I wanted a business that gives me the flexibility to spend more quality time with family and friends.

"As a sous chef I certainly know my way around an oven and understand how important it is to keep it in sparkling condition. This business demands attention to detail, pride in your work and a willingness to roll up your sleeves - qualities I've developed throughout my career."

"Spencer brings exactly the qualities we look for as we continue to expand our national network. His experience in hospitality means he knows kitchens inside out, while his enthusiasm and commitment give him an excellent platform to build a thriving business." 
Rik Hellewell, founder and managing director of Ovenu

Ovenu's professional cleaning service uses safe, non-caustic and biodegradable products to return ovens to near-showroom condition. The service also covers hobs, extractor hoods, microwaves and range cookers.